The City of Harare ordered the removal of a community solar-powered borehole in Ward 31, Glen View, within 48 hours to pave way for the development of four infill residential stands a move that has drawn outrage from residents who say it will worsen the water crisis in the area.
Director of Urban Planning, Mr Tanyanyiwa, confirmed the directive, saying the borehole was established on council land without authority.
“You are using and occupying council land illegally as you do not have either a lease with or the permission of council,” he said.
Mr Tanyanyiwa said those responsible must act immediately.
“Within 48 hours from the service of the order, you must depart from the land, remove all your property and demolish any structure erected thereon,” he said.
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He stated that failure to comply with the directive would result in enforcement action.
“If you fail to comply, steps will be taken to summarily evict you, demolish the structures and impound any property from the land. You will also be liable for all expenses incurred,” said Mr Tanyanyiwa.
The decision has angered residents who rely on the borehole, which serves more than 2,800 people in an area often affected by severe water shortages.
They said removing the facility would deprive them of their only reliable source of clean water.
“This borehole is our lifeline,” said a resident.
“If they take it away, we will be forced to fetch water from unsafe sources, putting our health at risk.”
The City of Harare insists all developments must comply with the Urban Councils’ Model By-Laws of 1979, which prohibit any occupation of council land without proper authorisation.
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